Scientists have detected atomic oxygen in the atmosphere of Venus, Earth's neighbouring planet.
The detection was made using an instrument aboard the SOFIA airborne observatory.
Unlike Earth, Venus has a thick and noxious atmosphere dominated by carbon dioxide (96.5%).
The detected atomic oxygen, consisting of a single oxygen atom, differs from molecular oxygen, which consists of two oxygen atoms and is breathable.
The oxygen was found concentrated between two layers of the Venusian atmosphere, at an altitude about 60 miles (100 km) above the surface.
The temperature of the oxygen ranged from about minus 184 degrees Fahrenheit (- 120 degrees Celsius) on the planet's day side to minus 256 degrees Fahrenheit (- 160 degrees Celsius) on its night side.